Olej CBD dla psa i kota - dawkowanie wg wagi (tabela)
CBD oil for dogs and cats: dosing table, how much to take, when and how to start. Practical guide from u Bucha.
The first randomized clinical trial assessing CBD in dogs was conducted by Gamble and colleagues at Cornell University in 2018. In dogs with degenerative joint disease, a dose of 2 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight given twice daily improved mobility comfort and reduced pain assessment by veterinarians (Gamble et al., Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018). This is a groundbreaking result - but remember that there is significantly less research on cats, and these animals metabolize cannabinoids differently. This article shows you a dosage table tailored to weight, a safe dosage increase protocol, and warning signs that you should definitely pay attention to.
KEY INFORMATION
• The only randomized study on CBD in dogs used 2 mg/kg twice daily and showed an improvement in mobility comfort (Gamble et al., Cornell University, 2018).
• Cats metabolize cannabinoids more slowly than dogs - their CYP450 enzymes have lower activity, which requires smaller doses.
• The starting dose is always half of the standard dose - observe the animal for 1-2 weeks before making any changes.
• THC-free products (or with THC below 0.2%) are safer for animals - dogs and cats are very sensitive to THC.
• Consult with a veterinarian before administering CBD, especially if the animal is on medication.
How does CBD dosing differ for dogs and cats?
Dogs and cats are completely different species in terms of cannabinoid metabolism. The Cornell University study (Gamble et al., 2018) was conducted exclusively on dogs - there are no comparable randomized clinical studies for cats (PMC5645638). This is an important difference that directly affects how cautiously dosing should be approached for each species.
Cats have limited activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP2B6 and CYP3A4. These enzymes are responsible for the metabolism of many lipophilic substances, including cannabinoids. A slower metabolism means that these compounds remain in a cat's body longer, and their concentration can increase with regular use faster than in dogs. Always dose more cautiously for cats.
Dogs, on the other hand, have a dense network of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 in their brains and organs. This is why dogs are particularly sensitive to THC - much more so than humans. The Cornell University studies confirmed that pure CBD (without THC) is well tolerated by dogs. This means: choose products with certified absence or trace amounts of THC.
CBD Dosage Table for Dogs and Cats by Weight
There is no officially approved CBD dosage for animals. The Gamble et al. (2018) study used a dosage of 2 mg CBD/kg body weight twice daily as a "therapeutic dose" for dogs - this is a reference point for the entire table below (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018). For cats, the doses are lower due to slower metabolism.
| Animal Weight (kg) | Starting Dose (mg CBD) | Standard Dose (mg CBD) | Higher Dose (mg CBD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <5 kg (cats / small dogs) | 0,5-1 | 1-2 | 2-4 | Cats: slower CYP450 - stick to the lower limit; observe for 2 weeks |
| 5-10 kg | 1-2 | 2-4 | 5-8 | Cats: use the starting dose for a longer period; dogs tolerate higher values |
| 10-20 kg | 2-4 | 4-8 | 10-16 | Only dogs in this category; observe for 7-14 days before changing the dose |
| 20-35 kg | 4-6 | 8-12 | 16-24 | Dogs: dose according to Cornell 2 mg/kg × 2 daily; consult with a veterinarian |
| >35 kg | 6-8 | 12-18 | 24-36 | Large dogs: higher doses possible, but always under veterinary supervision |
| Titration protocol: start with the starting dose and use it for 7-14 days. If there are no side effects, move to the standard dose. Use a higher dose only after consulting with a veterinarian. Cats: always start from the lower starting limit and observe longer. | ||||
We have noticed that pet owners often want to immediately give standard doses. This is a mistake. Start with the starting dose and maintain it for a full 7-14 days. Only the absence of any undesirable reactions (drowsiness, changes in appetite, unsteadiness) qualifies you to move higher. Record your observations daily - changes in the animal's behavior are difficult to assess without notes.
Our observations indicate that cat owners who started with the minimal starting dose (0.5 mg for a cat up to 5 kg) and increased it after a full two weeks reported episodes of excessive drowsiness or refusal to eat much less frequently than those who immediately used the standard dose. With cats, patience is not an option - it is a requirement.
When to increase the CBD dose in animals and how to do it safely?
The Cornell University study used a constant dose of 2 mg/kg throughout the 4-week trial period and did not report any serious adverse events (Gamble et al., 2018). This means that the standard dose is a target to be gradually approached, not a starting level. Any dose change requires at least a week of observation.
When to increase the dose? There are two signals. First: after 14 days of using the initial dose, you see no change in the pet's behavior and there are no adverse effects. Second: the veterinarian, after assessing the health condition, recommends moving higher. Both conditions must be met. The mere absence of effect without veterinary consultation is not a sufficient justification.
How to increase? Always by one step from the table above. From the starting dose to the standard dose, not to a higher one. With the standard dose, observe for another 7-14 days. Consider a higher dose only under the care of a veterinarian - especially in cats, where the risk of accumulation of the active substance is real due to slower metabolism.
What about dividing the daily dose? The Cornell study used two doses a day (morning and evening). This is a better scheme than a single large dose, as it maintains a more stable concentration in the blood and reduces the risk of peaks that can cause drowsiness. For cats, dividing into two smaller doses is particularly important.
How to administer CBD oil to a dog or cat?
The method of administration directly affects how much CBD actually enters the animal's bloodstream. CBD is a lipophilic substance, which means it is better absorbed in the presence of fats. Administering it with wet food or a treat containing fats is the best available method for the vast majority of pets.
Administering to a dog
Dogs react to taste much more mildly than cats. Most dogs will easily accept the oil mixed with wet food or a treat. You can also apply a drop directly to the gums or the mucous membrane of the mouth if the dog is calm and trusts you during such activities. Absorption through the mucous membrane is faster than through the digestive system.
Always measure the dose with the dropper provided with the bottle. Do not "eyeball" it - with small doses (1-3 mg), a difference of a few drops can mean doubling the planned dose. Check the product label for how many mg of CBD are in one drop. A typical 10 ml bottle contains about 200-250 drops.
Administering to a cat
Cats are much more demanding. Their sense of smell is exceptionally sensitive, and many cats refuse to eat when they detect anything unfamiliar. The most effective method: mix the minimal dose with a small amount of strongly scented wet food, e.g., tuna. Never add the oil to drinking water - CBD does not dissolve in water and settles on the walls of the bowl.
Do not apply the oil directly to the cat's mucous membrane without its cooperation. The stress from forced administration can be more harmful than the potential lack of a dose. Find a method that the cat accepts and stick to it. Consistency and a stress-free environment during administration are key to regular use.
Symptoms of CBD overdose in animals - what to watch for?
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reports cases of toxicity in animals after administering products containing THC, but pure CBD in clinical studies has not shown similar toxicity (Gamble et al., 2018). However, this does not mean that excess CBD is harmless. Each animal may react differently, and cats are particularly vulnerable due to their slower metabolism.
The warning signs you are looking for are: excessive drowsiness and lethargy not appropriate for the time of day, unsteadiness or coordination problems (ataxia), vomiting, or increased salivation. These symptoms usually appear within 1-4 hours after administration. In case of clear ataxia or vomiting, do not wait - contact your veterinarian.
Mild drowsiness after the first doses is normal and usually subsides after 2-3 days. This is a different signal than lethargy that lasts all day or inability to stand up. Learn to distinguish calm rest from neurological symptoms. When in doubt, always choose veterinary consultation.
Important note regarding products: products containing xylitol are deadly toxic to dogs. Before administering any supplement, check the ingredients for this component. Some CBD oils intended for humans may contain sweeteners that are unacceptable for animals.
Before administering CBD oil to an animal, consult with a veterinarian, especially if the animal is taking medications or has chronic conditions. CBD interacts with CYP450 enzymes, which can affect the metabolism of medications used in your dog or cat. A veterinarian can assess the risk of interactions and adjust the dosage according to the specific health condition of the animal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mg of CBD daily for a 10 kg dog?
A dog weighing 10 kg should start with a starting dose of 2-3 mg CBD daily. After 7-14 days of observation, you can gradually move to the standard dose of 4-6 mg. The Gamble et al. (Cornell University, 2018) study used 2 mg CBD per kg of body weight twice daily in dogs with osteoarthritis - this is a reference point, not a minimum dose (PMC5645638).
Can a cat receive the same dose of CBD as a dog of the same weight?
No. Cats metabolize cannabinoids more slowly than dogs due to lower CYP450 enzyme activity. The starting dose for a cat should be 30-50% lower than for a dog of the same weight. There are no randomized clinical studies on CBD in cats, so caution is particularly important here - consult any dosage changes with a veterinarian.
How to give CBD oil to a cat that doesn't want it?
The most effective method is to mix a minimal dose with strongly scented wet food, such as tuna. Do not add the oil to water, as CBD does not dissolve in water and will not reach the cat's body. Avoid forcing it directly into the mouth, as stress may increase reluctance during subsequent administrations.
What are the symptoms of CBD overdose in a dog or cat?
The main symptoms are excessive drowsiness, unsteadiness (ataxia), and vomiting. They usually appear within 1-4 hours after administration. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reports cases of toxicity in animals mainly after products containing THC, not CBD itself. In case of ataxia or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Is CBD oil for humans safe for animals?
The CBD compound itself is the same molecule, regardless of whether the product is intended for humans or animals. The issue may be the THC content and auxiliary ingredients. Choose products with THC content below 0.2% and without xylitol, which is deadly toxic to dogs. Check the full ingredient list before the first administration.
This article is for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Before starting to use cannabis or CBD for therapeutic purposes, consult a doctor, especially if you are taking other medications, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Author: Michał Waluk · Published: 2026-05-04 · Updated: 2026-05-04
